Relocatable fire, storm and contaminant resistant modular building structures

ABSTRACT

Transportable steel module units and methods for assembling such units to form structures on site to create living and workspace building environments which are non-combustible and resistant to unhealthy contaminants, and high winds and other environmental conditions and wherein each module unit is substantially completely prefabricated and finished to permit immediate occupancy and predetermined use of a structure created by connection of two or more module units.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application is based on and claims benefit of U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/171,310 filed Dec. 21, 1999 in the nameof the same inventors and entitled RELOCATABLE FIRE, STORM ANDCONTAMINANT RESISTANT MODULAR BUILDING STRUCTURES.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] 1. Field of the Invention

[0003] This invention is generally directed to transportable andrelocatable building structures and more particularly to such structureswhich are fabricated from metallic and preferably steel materials andwhich are formed of modular units which are substantially completelyprefabricated and finished such that they are ready for use whenassembled on site. The invention is further directed to the field oftransportable and relocatable modular building units which are readilyassembled to provide contaminate free, weather resistance and fire proofstructures which are safe for numerous work space and/or livingenvironments including, but not limited to, temporary classrooms.

[0004] 2. Brief Description of the Related Art

[0005] Temporary building structures are used not only for emergencyresidential or other housing purposes after natural or manmadedisasters, but are also used for providing working space or educationalspace in the form of temporary classrooms. Conventionally, manytemporary building structures are fabricated on site or are assembledfrom modular wooden structures which must be finished on site. Suchtemporary buildings thus require that appropriate building materials,including structural as well as finishing materials, be appropriatelysupplied to the site for assembly and/or installation by skilledworkers. Not only does site construction require on site engineers, butit also requires appropriate construction technicians to provide for theconstruction of an outer shell forming the temporary structure as wellas skilled individuals for installing and connecting heating andair-conditioning, sources to control the environment of such temporarystructures, electricians to install and connect necessary wiringcircuits for all electrical purposes which may include not only normalelectrical outlets but specialized outlets for purposes of communicationincluding computer, television, audio and other types of communication,plumbing personnel for installing and connecting appropriate sources ofwater supply and/or waste water disposal, depending upon thecontemplated use of a temporary structure.

[0006] In view of the foregoing, not only does on site constructionrequire that each component of a structure be accurately supplied to theconstruction site, but, each component must be properly identified andplaced into service in an appropriate manner to insure both structuralintegrity and operativeness of a structure. Frequently parts of systemssuch as electrical circuits and assembly components may be missing ormisplaced during construction thereby necessitating a delay in theconstruction process and also increasing the overall cost by requiringthat replacement parts be provided by special couriers to theconstruction site. Such construction problems relating to improperlysupplied or missing materials and improper use of components in an onsite construction may result in unacceptable delays or in unsafebuilding structures being placed into use.

[0007] In addition to the foregoing, there are other problems inherentwith on site construction of temporary living and working spaces. By wayof example, during construction of an on site building, weatherconditions and building methods allow moisture and other externalcontaminates to penetrate into interior components of the buildingstructure which contaminates can create an unhealthy living environment.Once a structure is completed, molds and mildews may develop withinfloors, ceilings, and wall panels resulting from such ambient conditionsand contaminants. Inappropriate assembly of panels to substructures canresult in allowing contaminates to enter spaces in walls, floors andceilings resulting in the growth of mold, mildew and bacteria which canaffect the health of individuals utilizing such structures.

[0008] Further, many on site temporary building structures are notadequately designed to provide a safe environment for those who are tobe sheltered therein. By way of example, many temporary or relocatablebuildings are constructed of materials which are easily or readilycombustible thus making them potentially unsafe and unsuitable for manyuses. Further, conventional temporary transportable or relocatablebuildings often are subject to damage by high winds, rains, and otherweather or ambient conditions thus further making them unsuitable formany uses.

[0009] Temporary building structures which are relocatable or which aredesigned to be assembled from component parts on site are frequentlyused as temporary classrooms. In such environments, children aresubjected to the adverse affects associated with conventionalstructures, making them undesirable and unsafe. Even with this in mind,however, many jurisdictions utilized higher risk portable or relocatableclassrooms due to economics and restrictions associated with expandingpermanent school facilities. Often school enrollments will increasefaster than a jurisdiction can predict, resulting in a lack of classroomspace and/or lack of funds to provide permanent space for all students.

[0010] By way of example, many temporary classrooms or other work spaceenvironments are created using transportable modular units constructedin the same manner as mobile houses. Mobile home structures are notdesigned to withstand harsh environmental conditions such as high windsand are not fireproof or contaminant resistant. Even when securelyanchored, mobile home type structures are easily damaged and destroyedwhen subjected to tropical force winds. In view of the foregoing, mobilehome structures are not suitable for providing a safe temporaryclassroom or other temporary working enclosure.

[0011] In view of the foregoing, there remains a need to providerelocatable and transportable structures which can be placed into usewith minimum assembly and at reasonable costs. In addition, there is aneed to provide for transportable and relocatable structures to ensure ahealthful and safe environment free from contaminates, which are fireproof, and which are resistant to damage from high wind and otherenvironmental conditions.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The present invention is directed to transportable andrelocatable building structures which are formed of prefabricatedmodules and wherein preferably two or more modules are assembled on siteto form a completed habitable structure suitable for use as a temporaryclassroom for students as well as other uses. The invention is morespecifically directed to modular building units which are formed havingmetal, and preferably steel, inner and outer wall panels, floors andceiling components and having suitable insulated space created thereinin which both thermal and sound insulation are provided in such a manneras to prevent intrusion and build-up of moisture and to prevent growthof undesirable and unhealthy contaminants including molds, mildews andbacteria. Each modular unit is prefabricated to include all necessaryelectrical, communication and plumbing components with each of thecomponents being oriented, in a preferred embodiment, so that whenmodules are assembled, they can only be assembled in a particular mannerto ensure proper alignment and connection of all such electrical,communication and plumbing components so that the operativeness of eachelectrical, communication and plumbing system including air conditioningand heating systems, is ensured. Therefore, the only requirement fortrained technicians and electrical, plumbing and other inspections isfor connecting exterior connection of sources of electrical, plumbingand communication equipment to a control panel associated with acompleted building structure.

[0013] In the preferred embodiment, each modular unit of the inventionincludes steel reinforcing to ensure that the floor, ceiling and wallpanels associated therewith are hurricane and high wind resistant.Further, the thermal and sound insulation provided in each wall, ceilingand floor panel is positioned and structured to prevent any moisturebuild-up. In the preferred embodiment, the interior wall panels areperforated in order to provide for good sound attenuation.

[0014] To assist in preventing outside contamination, each buildingstructure formed by an assembly of modular units of the presentinvention is heated and/or air conditioned by a central unit mountedthereto. The area above the ceiling of the structure may function as achamber for the intake associated with such heating and/or airconditioning units. Appropriate filters including electrostatic or HEPAfilter elements may be incorporated to provide air purification andremoval of harmful bacteria or other contaminants which may gain accessto the interior of the structure through the normal use of doors and/orwindows provided in each assembled structure and the intake of fresh,make up air. Because of the air tightness of the structure, an exhaustsystem is incorporated into the HVAC system to maintain a predeterminedpositive pressure within the structure to balance the fresh intake airand the exhaust air through the windows, doors and to maintain therequired air exchange.

[0015] To provide a fire proof or non combustible environment, thepanels of each modular unit contain no flammable or readily combustiblematerials. Metal flooring associated with each modular unit may beselectively coated with a non-skid coating of a non-combustible materialor may be covered with an appropriate carpeting which is specificallydesigned for fire resistance.

[0016] As the roof structures of the modular units of the presentinvention are also formed of a metal and preferably steel material, theexterior surface is coated with a microsphere coating. Such coatings arehighly energy reflective thus preventing build up of heat within theinterior of a completed structure. In some instances, depending uponclimatic conditions, the side walls of the modular units may also becoated with the reflective material.

[0017] In the preferred embodiment, door and window units are installedduring the prefabrication process with the interfaces between adjacentwall components being appropriately sealed in an air tight relationshipwith respect to one another to prevent contamination of the structuralunits. Modular units which are connected on site include outeroverlapping trim strips which provide for air and water tight sealstherebetween or, in the alternative, such abutment joints may be weldedon site in some applications.

[0018] To further prevent damage from environmental conditions includinghigh winds and hurricanes, the structural units of the present inventionare provided with appropriate exterior elements for mounting protectivebarriers such as solid panels or plywood or other materials for purposesof covering windows associated with some of the modular units.

[0019] Each modular unit also includes mounting structures for securingthe modular unit to support pads which are preferably formed of concreteor steel ties which have been appropriately anchored in the soil toprovide a strong base for supporting the structural units whenassembled.

[0020] The modular units of the present invention may be mechanicallyconnected utilizing conventional fasteners such as bolts and screws ormay be connected utilizing a variety of snap fit connectors which areinstalled during manufacture of each prefabricated unit such that byproperly orienting and positioning one modular unit adjacent anothermodular unit, the movement of the units together will simultaneouslycause or effect connection of the fastening elements in much the mannerof a quick disconnect fitting of the type utilized in pneumatic circuitsand other quick disconnect couplings.

[0021] It is the primary object of the present invention to provideprefabricated modular building units which are substantially completelyconstructed at an assembly location such as a manufacturing facilityunder controlled conditions to include both exterior and interiorcomponents such that when delivered on site, the assembly of two or moremodular units to one another forms a substantially completely occupiablebuilding which may be utilized for substantially any purpose. Further,connection of exterior sources of electricity, communication linesand/or plumbing fixtures is effected by single exteriorly accessibleconnections such that on site inspection of interior wiring and plumbingincluding electrical and communication wiring is not necessary.

[0022] It is also an object of the present invention to provide modularunits which may be assembled to form complete and immediately usablework, living and teaching space where the overall structure can beassembled on site by connecting only the modular units with respect toone another such that inventory of interior and exterior component partsis not required as such parts are installed prior to on site delivery.

[0023] It is also an object of the present invention to provide modulartransportable building structures which may be suitable for use asclassroom environments and which are substantially fire proof, stormproof, including high winds and rains, and contamination proof,including free of bacteria, mold and mildew.

[0024] It is yet a further object of the present invention to providemodular units which may be assembled on site with a minimal work forceand yet provide a rigid, sturdy and healthful environment suitable for aplurality of work and living uses including uses as classroomenvironment and wherein the structures may be erected at a substantialeconomic savings thereby reducing the economic burden to expand livingand work space environments for the benefit of creating more beneficialwork, living and educational space without over crowding.

[0025] It is yet another object of the present invention to providemodular building units which are formed of steel panels which areuniformly constructed and specifically designed to be interconnected toform usable enclosed work and living space and which are transportableover conventional highways from a point of manufacturer to an assemblysite.

[0026] It is also another object of the present invention to providemodular building units which can be assembled to provide single levelworking or living space and which can also be assembled in stackedrelationship to provide multi-tiered working and living environments.

[0027] It is also an object of the present invention to provide readilyassembleable modular units which are fully fabricated in order toprovide immediately useful, healthful and safe environments wherein eachmodular unit is designed so as to be maneuvered utilizing conventionalhoisting and lifting equipment such as forklifts and cranes.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] A better understanding of the invention will be had withreference to the attached drawings wherein:

[0029]FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a building formed utilizingthe transportable modular building units of the present invention;

[0030]FIG. 2 is a view taken from the left side of the building of FIG.1;

[0031]FIG. 3 is a view taken from the right side of the building of FIG.1;

[0032]FIG. 4 is a front plan view of the building of FIG. 1;

[0033]FIG. 5 is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along line 5-5 ofFIG. 1;

[0034]FIG. 6 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view taken alongline 6-6 of FIG. 1;

[0035]FIG. 6a is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a roof jointconnection in keeping with the embodiment shown in FIG. 6;

[0036]FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 ofFIG. 1;

[0037]FIG. 8 is a top floor plan view illustrating an internal finishingof the building shown in FIG. 1.; and

[0038]FIG. 9 is a view similar to FIG. 8 showing electrical connections.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0039] With continued reference to the drawing figures, a building isshown as constructed from a plurality of modular units in accordancewith the teachings of the present invention. The building shown includesopposing outer modular units 21 and 23 and a central modular unit 22which are shown in the drawings figures as assembled in side-by-siderelationship to form a free standing temporary classroom. Although theinvention will be described with respect to the three modular unitsshown in the drawing figures, the present invention is operative withrespect to one or more modular units and particularly to at least twomodular units which are designed to be connected on site to form acompleted and habitable building structure. In addition, although atemporary classroom is disclosed in the drawing figures, the modularunits of the present invention can be utilized to form any type ofresidential, commercial, recreational or other type of building. Thebuilding when assembled includes a front wall 24 including at least oneentry/exit door 25 and windows 26, a rear wall 28 and opposite sidewalls 29 and 30. Doors and windows may also be provided in the rear andside walls. The front, rear and opposite side walls are primarily formedof metal, preferably steel.

[0040] With particular reference to FIGS. 1-3, it should be noted thatthe side walls are formed by joining the modular units such that eachside wall is segmented including sections 29A, 29B and 29C and 30A, 30Band 30C. As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 the completed building also includesa metallic and preferably steel floor 32 which is formed byinterconnecting floor segments 32A, 32B and 32C associated with themodular units 21, 22, 23, respectively. The upper or interior surface ofeach of the steel floor segments 32A-32C is preferably covered with asheet vinyl, or a polyurethane coating which is skid resistant or with afire retardant carpet or other appropriate fire retardant material.

[0041] The completed building also includes a metallic, preferablysteel, roof 34 which is formed by interlocking or interconnected roofingplates 34A, 34B and 34C associated with the modular units 21, 22 and 23.Although the roof may be formed relatively flat, in the embodiment shownin the drawing figures, the central section of the roof 34B has amid-upper apex 35 from which the roof slopes downwardly on oppositesides thereof along the width “W” of the building. Roofing segments 34Aand 34C also are shown in the embodiment of the drawing figures astapering downwardly toward the front and rear walls of the building. Theroof is reinforced by providing box or tubular steel or other metallicbeams 36 and 37 along each longitudinal edge portion of the central roofsection 34B and by providing similar beams 38 and 39 along thelongitudinal inner edges of roofing sections 34A and 34C, respectively,as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. As opposed to box or tubular beams, othercross-sectional rigid support steel beams, such as I-beams, may beutilized in keeping with the teachings of the present invention. Toassembly the roofing sections, bolts 40 and associated lock nuts 41 areinserted through aligned openings (not shown) in the reinforcing beamsat spaced points along their length. As opposed to utilizingconventional fasteners such as bolts, the reinforcing beams may bewelded or otherwise secured with respect to one another. In someembodiments, latching male and female couplers may be utilized betweeneach of the opposing beams 36 and 38, 37 and 39 in order to secure theroofing sections with respect to one another. Such devices may be quickdisconnect couplers allowing the separation of the couplers on therelease of appropriate locking mechanisms associated therewith.

[0042] With specific reference to FIG. 6A, the opposing edges of each ofthe roofing sections 34A, 34B and 34C are either upturned ordown-turned, such as shown at 44 and 45 for roofing sections 34A and34B, and are spaced with respect to one another a slight distance inorder to receive a weather seal 46 therebetween. Each weather seal 46extends the full length of the joint between the roofing sectionsthereby ensuring that no air or moisture can enter an air space 50defined between a ceiling 52 of the completed building and the roofsections 34A, 34B and 34C. Each of the roofing sections 34A, 34B and 34Cis further reinforced by a plurality of generally laterally extendingmetallic, preferably steel, channel roof stiffeners 54. The number andspacing of the roof stiffeners 54 will depend upon the effective lengthof the modular units. In some embodiments, the roof stiffeners 54 mayinclude a plurality of spaced openings 55 therein in which suspensionrods or wires 56 preferably formed of metallic material, are selectivelymounted for purposes of supporting generally inverted T-shapedsuspension grids 58 of a grid system for supporting the ceilingstructure 52, as will be described in greater detail hereinafter.

[0043] To reduce the effect of thermal radiation on the completedbuilding structure, each of the steel roofing sections is coated with areflective coating or paint preferably of a type containingmicrospheres. Such a coating or paint is manufactured and distributedunder the name Ultra Seal distributed by Nationwide Chemical CoatingMfg., Inc.

[0044] To further insulate the roofing area or air chamber 50 associatedwith the completed building of the present invention, each roofingsection includes a thermal insulation layer 60 which extendssubstantially along the entire inner surface thereof. A preferredinsulation is AstroFoil™ manufactured by Innovative Energy, Inc. Theroofing sections further include additional thermal batt type insulation62 which extends along the complete lower surface area defined by eachsection and above the ceiling structure 52. In this manner, the thermalinsulation layers 60 and 62 are spaced from one another so as to definethe area or air chamber 50 therebetween. Further, and as shown in FIG.6, the area 50 within the roof section 34A is in open communicationbeneath the reinforcing beams 38 and 36 with the area 50 of the centralroofing section 34B and, in a like manner, the area within the centralsection is in open communication with the area 50 within the roofingsection 34C for purposes of providing uniform air flow to or from acentral air distribution, heating, and air conditioning unit 65 which ismounted to an exterior wall of one of the modular units of the building.In the drawing figures, the air circulation unit 65, which includesheating and/or air conditioning capabilities is mounted to the side wall30 of the structure and is supported on the side wall member 30Bassociated with the central modular unit 22. The air circulation unit 65is mounted exteriorly of the building structure so as not to adverselyeffect occupiable space within the interior of the building. The aircirculation, heating and air conditioning unit 65 may also include afresh air intake 66 which allows air from outside the building to beselectively introduced into the interior after passing through a filterelement 67 which may be an electrostatic filter or HEPA filter capableof removing possible contaminants which could effect the health ofindividuals within the structure. The operating capacity of the aircirculation, heating and air conditioning unit in cubic feet per minutewill be determined by local code such that the air maintained within thecompleted building structure is healthful.

[0045] With specific reference to FIG. 7, an enlarged cross-sectionalview having portions broken away of a corner portion of modular unit 21is disclosed. It should be noted that the cross-sectionalcharacteristics of the rear wall 28 and the opposite side wall 29 of thecompleted building wall have the same structural characteristics.

[0046] Each of the outer modular units 21 and 23 include corner columns72A and 72B which are shown in the drawings as being open steel columns.It should be noted that other types of steel columns may be utilized inkeeping with the teachings of the present invention. Each of the steelcolumns 72A and 72B is welded or otherwise secured at its lower end tothe steel floor section 32A which section is welded to a steel frame orbeam 74A which extends along the front of the building as shown in FIGS.2-6. A similar beam 74B extends along the rear of the building. Thefloor beams are also formed of steel which may be hollow incross-section or may be formed as an I-beam, channel beam or similarstructure. The support beams 74A and 74B are interconnected at theirends to side support beam segments 75A and 75B, respectively, whichextend along each side of the modular units 21 and 23. The centermodular unit 22 includes a pair of spaced vertical support posts orcolumns 76A and 76B at each end thereof which are formed of similarmaterial as the corner columns 72A and 72B. The columns 76A and 76B arewelded or otherwise secured to a support beams 77A and 77B provided ateach side or end of the modular unit. Each of the outer modular unitsalso includes along the side walls thereof interior vertical supportcolumns or posts 78A and 78B, respectively, which are formed of steelsimilar to columns 72A and 72B.

[0047] To join the posts or columns 78A and 78B to the columns 76A and76B, respectively, a plurality of mounting brackets 80 may be welded orotherwise secured to an interior surface of one of each pair of columnsto be connected. In drawing FIG. 7, the bracket 80 is shown as beingsecured to column 78A, however, the bracket could be secured to column78B. In a like manner, a further bracket 81 is welded or otherwisesecured to column 76A. Again, the bracket 81 may be provided along theinterior surface of the column 78A if the bracket 80 is attached to thecolumn 76A. The two brackets have aligned openings therein for receivingconventional bolts 82 for securing the brackets together and thusretaining the columns 78A and 76A in assembled relationship. The numberof brackets provided along the vertical length of the columns may bevaried depending upon the anticipated size of the building. In apreferred embodiment, the brackets 80 and 81 are provided in the ceilingarea such that the connections are not visible along the interior spaceof the building.

[0048] To seal the connection between adjacent columns of the modularunits, snap-on generally unshaped covers 85 are provided. The coverswill prevent the passage of air and moisture between the columns as wellas between the columns and adjacent segments of the walls associatedwith each of the modular units. In some embodiments, the covers may bewelded or otherwise secured and formed of a metallic material whereas inother embodiments, the covers may be formed of a different materialwhich is suitable for preventing the passage of moisture or air into theareas between the columns.

[0049] Seals may also be incorporated on the surfaces of each roof,floor and wall column whereby when the modular units are drawn togetherand connected, the seals compress together against the surfaces of thecolumns and beams to effect a moisture tight seal.

[0050] Each of the walls of the modular units of the present inventionare defined having outer steel wall panels 86 which may be corrugated asshown at 87 for purposes of reinforcement and strength and innermetallic and preferably steel panels 88 which may include a plurality ofgenerally equally spaced elongated recesses or grooves 89 formedtherein. Each of the outer wall panels 86 is welded or otherwise mountedand sealed with respect to one of the vertical support columns such asshown in 72A or to columns providing a frame for one or more windows orone or more doors, as will be described in greater detail. Mountedinteriorly of each outer steel panel 86 is a thermal insulation barrier90 which substantially covers the entire interior surface of the outerwall panels. The preferred type of thermal insulation is Astrofoil™.Spaced inwardly of the thermal insulation layer is a sound attenuationbatt insulation material 91 such as manufactured by Eckel Industries,Inc. Spaced inwardly of the sound insulation layer 91 is a vapor barrier92 which extends substantially along the entire inner surface of thewall panel. A plurality of vertically spaced horizontal steel angles 94extend along the length of each wall segment and provide a flange forreceiving fasteners 95 which are used to secure the inner steel wallpanels 88 relative to the exterior wall panels 86. The angles areappropriately secured such as by welding to the outer wall panels. Thefasteners 95 are preferably driven through the grooves 89.

[0051] One of the unique features of the present invention is that thewall structures are formed of outer and inner steel panels and are bothinsulated for thermal protection as well as for sound attenuation.Further, the outer steel wall panels form a barrier which will preventmoisture from entering insulation materials such that, when the wallsare fabricated in a controlled environment within a factory and themodules are assembled on site, the outside walls are impervious tomoisture and other contaminates. Once the inner wall panels are sealedwith respect to the outer wall panels and because of the steelconstruction, contaminates can not enter the space between the inner andouter wall panels thereby preventing mold, mildew or other bacteriagrowth within the walls. Further, with the present invention, the wallstructures, as well as ceiling and floor structures can be manufacturedin a controlled factory environment before delivery to an assembly site.Such finishing of the wall units is not possible when manufacturing atemporary building on site or off site by conventional means.

[0052] With reference to FIG. 5, the interior steel wall panels 88 maybe provided with a plurality of small openings 100 therein. The interiorpanels are perforated so as to provide sound attenuating characteristicsso that sound waves can not be reverberated within the steel structure.The size and type of openings 100 may be varied and be within theteachings of the present invention; it being the specific purpose toprovide surface characteristics for the wall panels which will attenuatesound without the use of combustible type materials.

[0053] In some embodiments, and as previously discussed, the outersurface of the outer panels 86 may be coated with a radiation reflectivecoating which may include a coating such as described with respect tothe roof panels.

[0054] With specific reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, partial cross-sectionalviews are shown showing the manner in which one of the window units isinstalled with respect to the front wall of the modular unit 21 of thepresent invention. The window is completely framed by hollow steel,aluminum or other metallic framing 101. The outer metal panels 86 of thewall are curved inwardly adjacent to the frame 101 to provide a weldingsurface or connection. Inwardly depending steel angles or flanges may beutilized for providing support for the internal insulation associatedwith the walls of the modular unit and/or for connection of the innerwall panels 88. A trim member may be welded or otherwise secured aboutthe interior portion of the window frame 101 for providing a finishingjoint between the inner steel panel 88 and the window.

[0055] In drawing FIG. 1, four windows 26 are shown mounted inside-by-side relationship within the window frame 101. The type ofwindows may vary and yet remain within the teachings of the presentinvention. For purposes of illustration only, the windows 26 may includecrank mechanism 110 which allows the windows to be pivoted so as toopen. To provide protection to prevent window damage in the event ofhigh winds, such as hurricanes or tornados, opposing L-shaped flanges114 and 115 are provided along the upper and lower portions of the outerarea of the window frame 101. The flanges are spaced a distance from thefront surface of the window assembly 26 to allow an appropriate solidbarrier to be slidingly or otherwise positioned therebetween. In oneembodiment, plywood panels may be slidingly engaged in opposing channels118 and 119 defined by the flanges 114 and 115 and the interior surfaceof the window 26. Permanent roll down or other types of windowprotection can also be provided.

[0056] With specific reference to FIG. 6, it should be noted that theouter wall panels 86 are designed to extend upwardly into substantialcontact with a steel angle to which the steel plate roof panel isattached so as to be substantially sealed with respect thereto. Agenerally L-shaped trim strip formed of steel trim angle 120 is shownwhich is used to seal the roof panels and the upper portion of the outerwall panel. It should also be noted that the thermal barrier 90extending within the wall is preferably coextensive with the thermalbarrier 60 extending in the roof portion of the modular units in orderto form a continuous barrier.

[0057] With particular reference to FIG. 7, at least one door 25 isprovided into the building. The door is surrounded by a steel frame 124which is welded or otherwise secured to the inner and outer wall panels88 and 86 so as to eliminate the flow of ambient air and moisturetherebetween. Appropriate seals may be provided along the edges of thedoor frame to restrict air flow between the door 25 and the door frame.The door is suspended by appropriate hinges (not shown) from the doorframe 124.

[0058] One of the unique features of the present invention is that themodular units 21-23 are substantially fully finished at the point ofmanufacturer such that when assembled on site, not only is the resultantbuilding readily habitable but the utilities associated therewithincluding electrical, plumbing, communication and the like aresubstantially ready for connection to external inputs and outputs. Inthis manner, all internal electrical wiring, plumbing and communicationcables and equipment is pre-installed or pre-wired within each modularunit requiring only quick connect couplings to be made betweenelectrical conductors, pipes, and communication cable. By pre-installingall internal wiring, ducting and plumbing, there is no need to require aplurality of separately skilled technicians to be on site during theerection of the modular units to form a completed structure. Further,there is also no requirement to halt building assembly in order to allowfor local inspections as such inspections may be made at the factoryduring the fabrication of the modular units. This facilitates not onlythe time of construction but also reduces the cost of construction byenabling those on site to preform their work without interruption.

[0059] To facilitate the manner in which the utility wiring and plumbingis connected, the present invention, in a preferred embodiment, purposesthat all connections be polarized. That is, each electrical conductor,communication cable or wire and plumbing pipe includes a connector whichis designed to be joined to a connector of an adjacent modular unit whenthe units are placed in assembled relationship. Further, the connectorsare designed such that the connectors are only cooperatively mated withrespect to one another in the event the modular units 21-23 are properlyaligned. As shown in FIG. 7, and by way of example, electrical conduits132 for providing power to conventional outlets 130 disposed at spacedlocations within each modular unit extend through the walls definingmodular unit 21. At the end of the conduit 132 is a first male connector134 having appropriate positive, negative and ground leads associatedtherewith. When the modular unit 21 is to be joined on site with modularunit 22, the male connector 134 is selectively receivable within afemale connector 136 provided within the modular unit 22 and whichitself is connected to an electrical conduit 138 extending through andcommunicating with additional electrical outlets in that modular unit.Electrical connector 136 can only receive the electrical connector 134if the modular units are properly aligned thus ensuring the correctpolarity of all electrical connections during assembly.

[0060] As shown in FIG. 7, the electrical connector 134 of modular unit21 and the electrical connector 136 of modular unit 22 are installedwithin the columns of each modular unit, however, such connectors may beprovided within the area of the ceiling or in an area beneath the floor.However, it is preferred that all electrical, plumbing and communicationconnections be polarized to ensure that connections can only be made ina proper manner.

[0061] Although not specifically shown in the drawing figures, whereplumbing pipes are to be connected through the walls of the modularunits of the present invention, quick disconnect and sealed couplingswill be utilized. Each coupling will include a male connector and afemale connector with appropriate seals being provided therebetween,such that when the connectors are assembled, a fluid type connection isestablished therebetween.

[0062] The modular units of the present invention may also be pre-wiredfor communication purposes. In this respect, telephone, cable and othertype of wiring may be provided in each of the walls of the modular unitsand in much the same manner as described with respect to the electricalwiring. This allows connection to television cable and telephone wirefor purposes of telephone and internet connections, cable forcommunication with communication systems such as public address systemsutilized in various institutions including schools, and direct firereporting communication and the like.

[0063] With specific reference to FIGS. 5 and 9, an example of anelectrical and communication wiring hook-up for the building shown inFIG. 1 is disclosed. It is noted that a plurality of 120 volt quadruplexelectrical outlets 130 are provided within the interior of the assembledbuilding. Also provided is a TV cable connection 140, a public addressspeaker 142, a fire alarm 144, a fire pull station 145 and a telephoneline connector 146. Also provided are appropriate smoke detectors whichare electrically connected to the fire alarms and which detectors areshown at 148.

[0064] With specific reference to FIG. 6, the details of the ceilingstructure 52 for each of the modular units is shown. As previouslydescribed, the roof structure provides appropriate hanger rods or wires56 supporting the grid system 58 for supporting the ceiling. The ceilingwill include a plurality of light fixtures 160 which are supported bythe grid system 58. Power to the lighting features 160 is providedthrough electrical conduits extending through the side walls of each ofthe modular units. However, in some embodiments, as opposed to extendingthe power through the side walls, as disclosed in FIG. 7, polarizedconnections may be provided in the roofing structure similar to thosepreviously described with respect to the side wall polarizedconnections.

[0065] The ceiling also includes acoustic ceiling tiles 164 which arealso suspended from the grid system 58. The acoustical tiles may be ofconventional construction but are non-combustible. As opposed toconventional acoustical tiles, the present invention may alsoincorporate sound attenuation metallic panels similar to the interiorwall panels 88 which are suspended from the grid system 58. The use ofsuch metallic panels may be desired to provide for further fireprotection and also to provide a more anechoic type interior chamber forthe completed building. Where necessary, expansion joints 165 may beprovided formed of an appropriate corrugated metallic or similarmaterial which extend between the ceiling tiles 164 and the lightingfeatures 160. The ceiling may also be constructed of sound attenuatingmetallic sections that cover the entire ceiling with provision forlightning fixtures and the like to eliminate any work required to formany secondary installation of the lights at a site.

[0066] With particular reference to FIG. 9, there is shown in dottedline a bathroom facility which may be utilized with the building shownin FIG. 1. The bathroom facilitate would include a toilet 170 and a sink172. The plumbing for the toilet and the sink 172 are disposed throughthe floor of the modular unit 23 and are designed to be directlyconnected to a source of water supply as well as to a drain pipe forconveying waste water from the facility.

[0067] With particular reference to FIG. 5, the modular units 21, 22 and23 of the present invention are each mounted, as previously described,on steel support beams or channels which are shown in the drawingfigures as being generally c-shaped. A box beam and I-beam constructionsmay be also utilized. The frames are designed to be connected toconcrete pads which are provided at the site of the building assembly.Appropriate steel anchor bolts are provided with each of the concretepads which are connectable through appropriate brackets (not shown)associated with the support beams allowing the beams to be easilysecured to the pads by appropriate anchoring nuts.

[0068] As previously described, the modular units of the presentinvention are designed to be polarized in that all utility connections,electrical, plumbing, communications and the like, are properly madeduring the assembly of the units. As shown in FIG. 1, a primary controlpanel 120 is provided along the end wall of modular unit 23. The panelincludes main circuit breakers to which an outside source of electricalsupply is selectively connected once the building has been assembled.Further, the control panel also includes appropriate connectors for thetelephone cable and other communication equipment. Therefore, allconnections made to the building are made at the exterior control panelwith the exception of plumbing connections.

[0069] The modular units of the present invention are specificallydesigned to be transportable over conventional roads and highways. Inpreferred embodiments, the width of each module is standardized such asto permit transport over highways without a special permit. In thisrespect, the modules may be 8 to 12 feet in width. The modules shown inthe drawing figures would therefore be approximately 33½ feet in length.The width and length, however, may vary depending upon desired interiorsquare footage required by the completed structure. Special permit useswould be necessary for modular construction widths of up to 14 feet andsubstantially longer modular unit length.

[0070] To facilitate the building erection, the modular units of thepresent invention are designed to be maneuvered either by a conventionalforklift or by crane. In this respect, appropriate openings 212 may beprovided in spaced relationship with respect to one another in the floorsupport beams for receiving the forks of a conventional forklift.Further, steel lugs such as shown in FIG. 3 at 220 may be providedadjacent each corner of the structure having openings therein forreceiving hooks or cable slings associated with a conventional crane.Therefore, manoeuverability of the modular units during assembly isfacilitated for different types of equipment.

[0071] With particular reference to FIG. 8, in some structures, it maybe desirable to preinstall various fixtures other than the utilityfeatures within the interior of each of the modular units. As shown, itis possible to provide a plurality of work stations 230 which aresecurely mounted to the steel floor panels 32A, 32B and 32C of themodular units 21-23. Such work stations may include individual computerswhich are connected to an appropriate LAN system through the controlpanel 120

[0072] In view of the steel construction of the modular units of thepresent invention, the completed building structures are free ofstructural components which promote the growth of molds, mildews andbuild up of moisture thus reducing the possibility of buildingcontamination. Further, the steel construction provides a solidstructure which is substantially storm resistant allowing the buildingsto be erected in areas where high winds can be expected such as in areaswhere hurricanes may be anticipated. Further, the steel constructionincluding both the interior and exterior walls provides a substantiallyfire proof structure which is extremely suitable for us as a residence,work space environment or classroom. The interior perforated steelwalls, floors and ceilings together with the sound insulation alsoprovide a living space having extremely good acoustical characteristics.

[0073] Although not specifically shown in the drawing figures, each ofthe modular units 21-23 of the present invention are sufficiently rigidto allow the units to be stacked one upon another. In this respect, acomplete building as shown in FIG. 1 can have a second buildingvertically stacked thereon by a modification of the roof structure orproviding a secondary frame structure that supports and distribute theweight of the second building and by providing appropriate steelconnections between the side walls of the lower unit and the side wallsor floor support frame of an upper unit.

[0074] The foregoing description of the preferred embodiment of theinvention has been presented to illustrate the principles of theinvention and not to limit the invention to the particular embodimentillustrated. It is intended that the scope of the invention be definedby all of the embodiments encompassed within the following claims andtheir equivalents.

We claim:
 1. A relocatable fire, storm and contaminate resistant modularbuilding structure comprising; steel walls formed of outer steel panelsand inner perforated steel panels having layers of thermal and soundinsulation disposed therebetween, said walls being secured relative to asteel floor and to a steel roof so as to define an interior living spacetherebetween, at least one entry door through one of said side walls toprovide access to said interior space.
 2. The relocatable modularbuilding structure of claim 1 including a plurality of modular unitseach having a wall portion, a floor portion and a ceiling portion andmeans for connecting said plurality of modular units in assembledrelationship so as to define said interior space.
 3. The relocatablemodular building structure of claim 2 in which each roof portionincludes an outer steel plate and spaced thermal insulation layers. 4.The relocatable modular building structure of claim 3 including meansfor suspending a ceiling from each of said roof portions.
 5. Therelocatable modular building structure of claim 4 in which said ceilingis formed of at least one steel panel having a plurality of soundattenuation openings formed therein.
 6. The relocatable modular buildingstructure of claim 3 including utility wiring disposed between saidouter steel panel and said inner steel panel of a plurality of said wallportions, and means for connecting said utility wiring of one of saidmodular units with utility wiring of another of said modular unitsutilizing a polarized connector system.
 7. The relocatable modularbuilding structure of claim 3 including an air circulation systemmounted to an outer panel of one of said plurality of modular units,said air circulation unit having at least one discharge opening throughan inner panel to said interior space.
 8. The relocatable modularbuilding structure of claim 7 including an air circulation area definedbetween said ceiling and said steel roof, and duct means forcommunicating said plenum to said air circulation means.
 9. Therelocatable modular building structure of claim 3 including a steelsupport frame structure for each of said modular units.
 10. Therelocatable modular building structure of claim 2 in which each of saidwall portions is connected in air tight manner to said roof portions andsaid floor portions of each of said plurality of modular units.
 11. Therelocatable modular building structure of claim 2 including at least onewindow provided through one of said side walls, and means extending fromsaid outer steel panel adjacent said at least one window for supportinga barrier cover for protecting said at least one window in the event ofadverse environmental conditions.
 12. The relocatable modular buildingstructure of claim 2 in which each of said side wall portions of each ofsaid modular units includes at least one vertical steel post, means forsecuring said at least one steel post of one of said modular units tosaid at least one steel post of an adjacent modular unit, and means forsealing an interface defined between assembled steel posts of saidmodular units.
 13. A method of building and assembling a modularbuilding structure which may be selectively relocatable and which isresistant to fire, storm and biological contaminants comprising thesteps of; a) forming a plurality of modular building units in acontrolled environment wherein each modular unit is formed having sidewalls with an outer steel panel and an inner steel panel having thermaland sound insulation disposed therebetween; b) assembling said wallpanels to steel floor panels and steel roof panels and providing thermalinsulation adjacent said roof panels; c) providing utility wiring withinat least one of said modular units; and d) transporting said pluralityof modular units from said controlled environment to a building site andassembling said modular units at said building site by connecting saidmodular units to one another to thereby define a habitable interiorliving space.
 14. The method of claim 13 including the steps ofproviding polarized mechanical and electrical connectors for each ofsaid plurality of modular units and assembling said plurality of modularunits by aligning said polarized connections with respect to oneanother.